Bomb building information available online

Many of Internet users visit Google or YouTube nearly every day to learn something new.

All kinds of helpful information is available online, but some people are surfing the web to learn how to make bombs like the ones used in Boston. And the idea that some are using the web to learn how to make deadly weapons has some people concerned.

The Internet is a world of information at your fingertips. Users can learn how to play the guitar, or even how to make cheese. Anything one could possibly want to know can be found with some quick key strokes or the click of a mouse.

"If I need to know how to fix something, I go out on the Internet and use Google or bing, and get out there and say 'how do I do this?' and it pops up," said James Mitchell, Albany Resident.

"I'm an online merchant for a beauty store, and I've learned a lot of things online, as far as YouTube," said Karmen Kendrick, Albany Resident.

Knowledge is power, and world technology continues to grow as information becomes more readily available. While the Internet has led to great advancements, it's also given access to what some consider dangerous information.

Some web sites show detailed information on constructing pressure cooker bombs, like the type used in the Boston attack. But should people have access this kind of information?

"I really don't think anybody has any business going out there to try to learn how to build a bomb," Mitchell said.

Freedom of speech extends to the Internet, and people wanting to display information can put up whatever they want. But not everyone thinks just anything should be posted.

"Once you start putting the public in danger, especially your right to exercise your freedoms, then you freedoms stop," said Otis Coles, Jr.

Privacy has kept a lot of government tracking at bay, but some web sites are monitored by officials.

Sex web sites displaying child pornography are monitored, as well as some sites related to terrorist organizations. But privacy concerns have kept the government from monitoring users who visit many web sites.

All of the people we spoke with Wednesday think the government should monitor web sites displaying information that could harm others.